Octomore 09.1

Octomore 09.1, 5 YO, 59.1 %

The Octomore 09.1 was distilled in 2012, and bottled on 2018-09-13. It was matured in ex-bourbon American oak, and made using malt peated to 156 ppm. This was a “limited” release of 42000 bottles

Here is part of the official blurb:

“Distilled in 2012 from 100% Scottish barley, the 09.1 is matured full-term in top-tier ex-American whiskey casks.”

The Octomore 09.1 is still available to buy in Norway at NOK 1990 (10636201).

Nose: Soft and more fruity than your average Octomore. Apples, pears and ripe banana. Vanilla, caramel and hints of white pepper. Not all that peaty on the nose actually. Sure it is a peaty dram, but the peat is well integrated and of the woodsy and earthy type. A light, slightly vegetal and fresh nose.

Taste: Rich and full bodied - I mean, what did you expect from an Octomore?! Soot, ashes, and red hot peppery embers. Then light and creamy caramel cream. Vanilla, nuts and ginger.

Finish: Medium long finish. Lots of peaty notes still, as well as dark and sweet licorice. Softly astringent. Hints of cut grass. Ginger, cinnamon and milk chocolate. Right at the end it turns darker, drier, and somewhat oaky and bitter.

Comment: I’ve been punched in the teeth again, and that’s OK.

Score 88/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas